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Do you want to develop a culture of mutual respect in your classroom? The process begins with a teacher who is aware that it is students, and not lessons, that are being taught. This means that the first move is up to you. So step out of your lesson plans and into the lives of your students. As you show interest in each individual, you will jumpstart the process of mutual respect by demonstrating respect on a one-to-one basis.

Although it's not easy to get up close and personal with each student in a classroom of thirty, it doesn't take much time to make eye contact, smile, and call each one by name on a regular basis. As you interact with each student, you will become better acquainted with individual's needs. As you look for ways to meet those needs, you will develop a rapport and earn the respect of each of your students.

Students naturally respect a teacher who demonstrates a confidence in her ability to teach and a good working knowledge of the material she is presenting. You may not always have all the answers. When you don't, older students will value your honest admission, I don't know, coupled with your willingness to say, 'But I will do some research and get back to you on that.' As you demonstrate that you are teachable and willing to learn from your students as well as through your lesson preparation, you model a humility that will earn you the esteem of your class.

Students tend to be attracted to a teacher who is interactive and personable. If you teach elementary students you will need to show patience, kindness, and creativity in your methodology of lesson presentation. Although they may not be able to articulate that what they are feeling is respect, your children will become dear to your heart as they demonstrate their willingness to obey instructions and their eagerness to win your favor.

High school students respect an educator who doesn't talk down to them in the classroom. They also want to know the rules going in and not be hit with any surprises along the way. Once you set the ground rules, enforce them. Failure to follow through will result in your being disregarded as an authority figure. If you know how to have fun in the classroom, well, that's another plus in your favor. Teens can spot a fake quickly, so if you are anything less than genuine, your students won't have a very high opinion of you. Treat a high school student like a responsible person. State the ground rules and enforce them, when necessary. Try to loosen

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